10 Best Basic Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Moto G Play 2024 is an unlocked basic cell phone suitable for everyday use. It excels in several key areas, starting with its impressive battery life. The 5000mAh battery ensures you can work and play for extended periods without needing frequent recharges, making it ideal for users who prioritize longevity. The display is a 6.5-inch HD+ screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and a decent viewing experience, although the resolution is not the highest available.

Durability is addressed with a splash-resistant design, which is effective against minor water exposure but not submersion, making it reasonably durable for daily handling. Ease of use is enhanced by the Android 13.0 operating system, offering a user-friendly interface that most people will find intuitive. Call quality is robust, supported by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor which ensures reliable performance during calls.

Text messaging is straightforward and efficient, as expected from a basic cell phone. Additional features such as stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, expandable memory up to 1TB, and GPS capability add value and versatility to the device. However, the phone's camera, despite being advertised as 50MP, effectively delivers 12.5MP photos due to pixel binning. While the phone offers solid performance and features for its category, it may not meet the needs of users looking for higher-end specifications or advanced functionalities.

The BLU G44 is a basic cell phone that offers several appealing features for users looking for an affordable yet functional smartphone. One of its standout features is the 6.8-inch HD+ Infinity Display, which provides a large and immersive viewing experience, making it great for watching videos and browsing photos. The triple 13MP camera system is another strong point, allowing users to capture detailed photos and videos, which is uncommon in this price range. The 4000mAh battery ensures all-day power, reducing the need for frequent recharging and supporting non-stop use throughout the day.

Additionally, the phone comes with advanced fingerprint technology, adding a layer of security for your data and apps. Being GSM unlocked, it offers flexibility in choosing carriers like T-Mobile and Metro PCS, although it is not compatible with AT&T, Cricket new activations, or CDMA networks like Verizon, which could limit some users' options. The phone is relatively easy to use, running on Android 14, which is user-friendly and familiar to many. However, the device may fall short in terms of performance due to its modest 2GB RAM, which could affect multitasking and running more demanding apps smoothly.

With a storage capacity of 64GB, it provides decent space for apps, photos, and videos, and is appropriate for basic use. The inclusion of a charger and phone case in the box adds value, making the package more attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The phone's design is described as sporty and elegant, appealing to those who appreciate aesthetics. In summary, the BLU G44 is a solid choice for users seeking a basic cell phone with a large display, good camera capabilities, and robust battery life, although it may not be the best option for those needing higher performance and broader network compatibility.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy A35 5G is a versatile cell phone that offers several strengths for users seeking basic functionality with a touch of modern features. It boasts a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant and clear visuals that adjust to lighting conditions thanks to Vision Booster technology. This makes it enjoyable for streaming, browsing, and gaming even in bright sunlight.

The phone features an advanced triple camera system with optical image stabilization and Nightography for capturing high-quality photos and videos, including clear low-light shots. The 128GB internal storage, expandable up to 1TB, ensures ample space for all your memories and apps without worrying about running out of space. The rugged design enhances durability, making it suitable for daily use and handling the occasional drop or bump.

The phone operates on ONE UI 6.0 and Android 14, giving a smooth and user-friendly experience. Call quality and text messaging are reliable, providing clear audio during calls and ease of texting. Additional features like Circle Search enhance its utility by enabling quick searches for information based on images. The Galaxy A35 5G seems best suited for users who want a blend of basic cell phone functionality with advanced features and a robust design.